How to File a Florida Notice of Commencement — Step-by-Step Guide
Filing a Florida NOC doesn't have to be complicated. Here's exactly what to do — and when — so your project is protected from day one.
Key Takeaways
- The NOC must be recorded before construction begins — no grace period.
- Steps: prepare → notarize → record with county clerk → post at job site → provide certified copy to lender.
- eRecording is available in most Florida counties and is the fastest method.
- Recording fees: typically $10 for the first page plus $8.50 per additional page.
Step 1: Prepare the NOC
Use Florida's statutory form (§ 713.13, F.S.) or your county's preferred form. Include the full legal description of the property (not just a street address), owner's full legal name and address, general contractor's name, address, phone, and license number, construction lender's name and address (if applicable), and the owner's signature block for notarization.
💡 Pro tip: Get the legal description from the most recent deed or the county property appraiser's website — don't rely on a property tax notice, which sometimes uses shortened descriptions.
See our forms and templates page for a downloadable template.
Step 2: Get It Notarized
The owner (or authorized agent) must sign the NOC in front of a Florida notary public. Key points: the notary must be physically present — or use Florida-compliant Remote Online Notarization (RON) per § 117.021, F.S. Bring valid photo ID to the notary appointment and have the notary complete the acknowledgment block with their seal.
Step 3: Record with the County Clerk
Submit the notarized original to the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county where the property is located.
| Method | Typical Turnaround | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| In-person at Clerk's office | Same day | Bring original + copy; pay recording fee at window |
| Mail to Clerk | 3–10 business days | Include check + self-addressed envelope |
| eRecording via File & Go | Same day – 2 business days | Fastest and most reliable; no courthouse trip |
Recording fees under § 28.24, F.S.: typically $10 for the first page and $8.50 per additional page.
File and Go
File and Go handles every step: preparation, notarization coordination, eRecording, and job-site posting instructions. Most NOCs recorded same day.
Step 4: Post at the Job Site
After recording, post a certified copy of the recorded NOC at the job site before construction commences. Per § 713.13(1)(d), F.S., it must be posted conspicuously at the site. Posting an uncertified copy is a common mistake — it must be the certified copy with the official recording stamp.
Step 5: Provide Copies to Required Parties
- Construction lender: Certified copy before the first loan draw.
- General contractor: Should have a copy to share with subcontractors who request it.
- Building department: Some counties require a copy at permit issuance.
Filing Methods: DIY vs. Using File & Go
| Factor | DIY (In-Person or Mail) | File & Go (eRecording) |
|---|---|---|
| Time to record | Same day (in-person) or 3–10 days (mail) | Same day – 2 business days |
| Recordability review | None — county may reject and return | Yes — we check before submission |
| Certified copy | Request separately | Included in your order |
| Tracking | None | Real-time order tracking |
| County expertise | You research each county's requirements | We handle county-specific requirements |
🟢 How File & Go Streamlines Filing
Upload or Create
Use our guided form or upload your own NOC document.
Recordability Check
We review for completeness, legal description, and county requirements.
eRecord
Electronic submission to the county Clerk — most counties same business day.
You're Done
Receive instrument number, recording date, and certified copy by email.
Common Mistakes When Filing
- Filing after construction starts: Even one day can create lien priority issues.
- Using the wrong form: Some counties have custom forms — a generic state form may be rejected.
- Incomplete legal description: The most common rejection reason. Use the full recorded legal description from the deed.
- Not posting at the site: Recording without posting is a statutory violation.
- Mailing without sufficient lead time: Mail can arrive after work starts. eRecording eliminates this risk.